If you’re like me, you’re probably feeling a whirlwind of emotions about your upcoming move to Kigali, Rwanda, right? For my relo, I tried my best to prepare well in advance so I could be as comfortable as possible. So what are the things to consider when moving from the Western world to East Africa? Thus far, I’ve been Living In Kigali for the past 2 months and I’ve uncovered some nuggets of wisdom that you probably wanna know –
- Shipping Smarts: Ah, the joys of international shipping! But let’s be savvy about it. Since Rwanda is landlocked, consider what truly needs to come along for the ride.
- Kiddo Essentials: If you’ve got little ones in tow, remember to pack their birth certificates, medical records, and any meds they need. And a little heads-up for the future, chat with their doctor about a year’s supply of medications before you embark on this exciting journey.
- Your Must-Have Products: Whether it’s your tried-and-true makeup or those special body care products, consider bringing them along. While you can find them in Kigali, imports can be a tad pricier.
- Cozy Bedding and Towels: Trust me on this one—finding quality linens at a reasonable price can be a bit of a quest. Consider packing your own to make your new place feel just like home.
- Kitchen Essentials: For me, it’s all about that trusty blender. Good news is many homes and apartments now have universal electric outlets. So, feel free to bring or buy your beloved kitchen gadgets.
- Going Green with EVs: Rwanda is leading the charge in sustainability, and EVs are all the rage. With gas prices on the rise, it might be time to consider making the switch. I got mine from Kabisa, and I couldn’t be happier!
- See Before You Commit: Hold off on major commitments until you’ve set foot on Rwandan soil. Photos can be deceiving, and you’ll want to know the lay of the land firsthand.
- Embrace Kinyarwanda: The locals truly appreciate when you make an effort to communicate in their language. A few basic phrases can go a long way. I’m currently doing 1-1 in person classes with a lady named Denyse but if you’re not here yet or don’t feel like stepping out our your home, I highly recommend – The Kigali School of Kinyarwanda.
- Connect and Explore: As you step into this new community, make an effort to connect with locals. And if you need a guiding hand, Yves from Soft Landing or Emmanuel from My Cousin Connection have been absolute lifesavers for me – you can get their deets by subscribing to SecretSauce or send me an email – [email protected].
- Living Luxe for Less: It’s true, even the middle class can enjoy a touch of luxury in Rwanda. From drivers to housekeepers and even security guards, it’s more accessible than you might think.
- Visa? Residency? No Problem: Get yourself a local expert who knows the ins and outs of government processes. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
- Legal and Financial Allies: For all you entrepreneurs and investors, having a top-notch tax/accountant and lawyer on your side is crucial. Felix from Jali Accountant and Florida from Certa Law have been absolute gems in my journey. Kirsty (the originator of LIK) introduced me to Felix, CEO of Jali, and I’ve had nothing but the best experience with him and his team members. You can check out their website and all their offerings here – Jali Partners. And for legal matters, an American expat introduced me to Florida and her colleagues of Certa Law.
- Always Negotiate: Don’t Hesitate to Haggle! When shopping, especially at markets and smaller stores, prices aren’t always set in stone. Embrace your inner negotiator and haggle for the best deals. It’s a common practice in Rwanda and can lead to some fantastic bargains!
- Discover Hidden Gems in Kigali! There’s a wealth of activities and hidden treasures waiting to be explored in Kigali. From cozy cafes to tucked-away boutiques, the city is full of surprises. Stay in the know by following Living In Kigali on Instagram, joining our Private FB Group, or simply peruse our website for the latest updates and insider tips on the best spots to visit!
I’ve tried to add links so you have as much direct resources to connect to, but have I covered everything you’re curious about? Don’t be shy—drop your questions or share your thoughts below!
